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veggiestrawenjoyer13's reviews
29 reviews
The Dawnhounds by Sascha Stronach
adventurous
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.5
The concept of the book is really interesting, I was excited to read it. It had decent reviews, too. However, it fell short big time.
The beginning, and really most of the book, is extremely slow. This isn’t always a bad time, but it felt like nothing happened until the last quarter of the book. Once I hit the point where Yat died (the big plot moment), it got better. The middle made more sense, despite how slow it was. I never felt attached to the characters, I had absolutely no emotional connected. This really stunted it for me, because I couldn’t care less about what happens to them.
The writing is very good at some points, but is mostly confusing. This book could really use a map of the world and a glossary of terms/places. I had no idea what was going on most of the time, and not because of the New Zealand dialect. I simply could not grasp the importance of any places or organizations.
The biggest problem I had with the book was that the plot progressed so sporadically. The last quarter of the book springs so much lore and answers on the reader that it’s difficult to pick up. Also, it felt like it came out of nowhere. This story could have worked well with informations sprinkled throughout, but that didn’t happen.
I pretty much only finished the book so I could read something else. I enjoyed the plot twist at the end and it was extremely surprising, but that doesn’t make the book good. I’m happy for those who enjoyed it, but this wasn’t for me. I won’t be reading the second book, unfortunately.
The beginning, and really most of the book, is extremely slow. This isn’t always a bad time, but it felt like nothing happened until the last quarter of the book. Once I hit the point where Yat died (the big plot moment), it got better. The middle made more sense, despite how slow it was. I never felt attached to the characters, I had absolutely no emotional connected. This really stunted it for me, because I couldn’t care less about what happens to them.
The writing is very good at some points, but is mostly confusing. This book could really use a map of the world and a glossary of terms/places. I had no idea what was going on most of the time, and not because of the New Zealand dialect. I simply could not grasp the importance of any places or organizations.
The biggest problem I had with the book was that the plot progressed so sporadically. The last quarter of the book springs so much lore and answers on the reader that it’s difficult to pick up. Also, it felt like it came out of nowhere. This story could have worked well with informations sprinkled throughout, but that didn’t happen.
I pretty much only finished the book so I could read something else. I enjoyed the plot twist at the end and it was extremely surprising, but that doesn’t make the book good. I’m happy for those who enjoyed it, but this wasn’t for me. I won’t be reading the second book, unfortunately.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Hate crime, Homophobia, Blood, Religious bigotry, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Drug use, Violence, and Death of parent
Faebound by Saara El-Arifi
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
My issue with reading is that I expect every book to be a masterpiece, like the select few I’ve read. This book was pretty good, it just didn’t live up to my standards.
The writing style was good and the author did a great job at invoking emotions. I quickly became attached to the characters, and I feel they had a lot of personality. Though I will say, the romances did feel slightly forced and moved quickly for the characters (in my opinion.) Despite this, I did enjoy the couples together, so I can overlook the lack in development for them.
Overall, it was a good book. Some plot twists were expected, but I think the more important ones caught me so off-guard. I was pleasantly shocked at the end, and I’m looking forward to reading the second book.
The writing style was good and the author did a great job at invoking emotions. I quickly became attached to the characters, and I feel they had a lot of personality. Though I will say, the romances did feel slightly forced and moved quickly for the characters (in my opinion.) Despite this, I did enjoy the couples together, so I can overlook the lack in development for them.
Overall, it was a good book. Some plot twists were expected, but I think the more important ones caught me so off-guard. I was pleasantly shocked at the end, and I’m looking forward to reading the second book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Sexual content
Moderate: War and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Animal death, Death of parent, and Alcohol
The Weavers of Alamaxa by Hadeer Elsbai
adventurous
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
It’s been a hot minute since I read the first book, so maybe my judgement is slightly clouded. I still enjoyed the characters a lot, yet I never developed a strong emotional connection with them. During this book, I felt like they already went through the necessary character development. I found the writing to be repetitive at times, occasionally in a beautiful way but often in an annoying way. The pacing was extremely fast compared to the first book, to the point where it felt very rushed. I think a lot of aspects should’ve been alluded to in the first book, it felt like a lot of things were added just to create more plot twists. I was surprised a few times, which was nice. Though the end felt wrapped up too nicely for all the characters went through. I remember liking the first book much more, though this isn’t the worst sequel I’ve ever read.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Blood, Grief, and Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Death, Kidnapping, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Misogyny and Sexual harassment
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
challenging
emotional
informative
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This is my second time reading it, and while it doesn’t have the same impact knowing what’s going to happen, I remember how I felt the first time. It’s a beautifully heartbreaking and emotional story. I feel so connected with and empathetic towards the two main characters, Miriam and Laila. The writing is perfect for this subject matter and had such an emotional impact for me. I love this book, this story, and these characters. It’s heartbreaking to know this is the reality for many women in our world today.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Gore, Physical abuse, Violence, and War
Moderate: Sexism, Blood, Grief, Religious bigotry, Pregnancy, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Suicide and Abandonment
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After by Clemantine Wamariya
challenging
emotional
informative
reflective
medium-paced
3.25
I had to read this for school so it’s definitely not something I’d normally pick up. I enjoyed reading it and I became more interested in the author, but it’s just not my normal cup of tea. The author is extraordinary with her words and descriptions, her writing really immerses you into the story she’s telling. Pretty good overall.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Domestic abuse, Violence, and War
Moderate: Child abuse, Child death, Sexual violence, and Sexual harassment
The Scourge by Jennifer A. Nielsen
adventurous
inspiring
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
This was a nostalgia read for me. I was absolutely obsessed in middle school, and I’ve read it so many times. It’s definitely targetted to middle schoolers, but that’s alright. It was still fun to relive a story that used to be so important to me. My honest review would probably be more like 3.5, but the nostalgia has made me rate it higher. The ending felt quite rushed, I would love a sequel!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood
Misrule by Heather Walter
emotional
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
For the first time ever, I actually liked the sequel better than the first book. Some of the first book continued into this one, like the somewhat flatness of the characters and stereotypical/expected behavior. However, I found myself more interested in continuing the book. I was really skeptical after reading some reviews, though I genuinely was more interested in this book. I could see where the writing style of the author improved in certain places. There were also moments that I completely didnt expect and fully shocked me. For example, I expected Derek’s betrayal because he was too obviously involved. But I didn’t expect Aurora and Neve’s separate plot. I didnt see it coming, like how I had for Derek and Kal. The character’s still struggled with lacking dimension, but I think they had more complex emotions and motives than in the first book. This made it much more intriguing to read. The ending became very fast paced and quite rushed, I’m not very satisfied with it. Overall, this book was still better (in my opinion) than the first of the series. I’m not sure that I would recommend them, but if you think this is something you would like, you should give it a try.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence and War
Moderate: Torture, Blood, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Animal death and Bullying
Malice by Heather Walter
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I have mixed feelings about this book. Before I get into the details, I will be reading the second because I’m interested enough to finish the series.
It had a bit of a slow start, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It gave me time to understand the characters and adjust to the writing style. I enjoyed the worldbuilding even if occasionally it seemed out of place. I will say the writing was not the best quality (in my opinion). However, the other aspects such as the plot and cast of characters pulled through for me.
The romance was one of the iffiest parts. I love love love the concept and I do like the love interests together. Though I felt that their relationship could’ve been developed more beyond conversations to move the plot forward. I’d kill for a nice domestic or just..simple banter between them. That could just me by taste in romance.
The end was definitely one of my favorite parts. I liked the build-up and plot twists. While I was suspicious of some things, the actual reveals were so good. I can see now the hints towards the truth, which is a nice feeling as a reader. Overall, the book was kinda mid compared to my expectations but it had its good parts.
It had a bit of a slow start, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It gave me time to understand the characters and adjust to the writing style. I enjoyed the worldbuilding even if occasionally it seemed out of place. I will say the writing was not the best quality (in my opinion). However, the other aspects such as the plot and cast of characters pulled through for me.
The romance was one of the iffiest parts. I love love love the concept and I do like the love interests together. Though I felt that their relationship could’ve been developed more beyond conversations to move the plot forward. I’d kill for a nice domestic or just..simple banter between them. That could just me by taste in romance.
The end was definitely one of my favorite parts. I liked the build-up and plot twists. While I was suspicious of some things, the actual reveals were so good. I can see now the hints towards the truth, which is a nice feeling as a reader. Overall, the book was kinda mid compared to my expectations but it had its good parts.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Torture, Violence, and Blood
Moderate: Child abuse, Death, Drug abuse, and Classism
Minor: Suicide
Backwards to Oregon by Jae
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
I have never finished a book in two days before. This book effectively dragged me out of my reading slump. I didn’t think I would be so hooked, as the first few chapters had me skeptical and a little confused.
However, once the story picked up I couldn’t put the book down. The conflicts had me so on edge, and of course I needed to know how Luke and Nora’s relationship progressed. I feel like their individual struggles were really well-written along with the progression of their relationship. I’ve never been one for reading stories about kids or pregnancy, but I wasn’t revolted by it this time. The found family trope goes so hard, and I adored that the romance wasn’t the only kind of relationship explored here. I also felt great empathy for and interest in the side characters, despite them not being the focus. Also, as a lesbian with a complicated gender identity, Luke’s experience with her gender was a nice addition.
As much as I enjoyed reading this book, there were some things that caused it not to be a five-star rating. I will say, the writing could be a bit repetitive. This is absolutely not a dealbreaker for me, and I could look past it to enjoy the story. It may bother other people though, which I can understand. Additionally, I can see aspects of how the prostitutes and Native Americans were described as problematic. I believe that wasn’t the intent of the author, and it’s obvious (at least to me) that Jae wanted to minimize those things despite the old-fashioned views of the characters.
All in all, I would recommend this to anyone who’s into historical queer romance. It’s not the best piece of literature I’ve ever read, but it was so entertaining and I struggled to stop reading it for two days straight.
However, once the story picked up I couldn’t put the book down. The conflicts had me so on edge, and of course I needed to know how Luke and Nora’s relationship progressed. I feel like their individual struggles were really well-written along with the progression of their relationship. I’ve never been one for reading stories about kids or pregnancy, but I wasn’t revolted by it this time. The found family trope goes so hard, and I adored that the romance wasn’t the only kind of relationship explored here. I also felt great empathy for and interest in the side characters, despite them not being the focus. Also, as a lesbian with a complicated gender identity, Luke’s experience with her gender was a nice addition.
As much as I enjoyed reading this book, there were some things that caused it not to be a five-star rating. I will say, the writing could be a bit repetitive. This is absolutely not a dealbreaker for me, and I could look past it to enjoy the story. It may bother other people though, which I can understand. Additionally, I can see aspects of how the prostitutes and Native Americans were described as problematic. I believe that wasn’t the intent of the author, and it’s obvious (at least to me) that Jae wanted to minimize those things despite the old-fashioned views of the characters.
All in all, I would recommend this to anyone who’s into historical queer romance. It’s not the best piece of literature I’ve ever read, but it was so entertaining and I struggled to stop reading it for two days straight.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content, Sexual violence, Religious bigotry, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Homophobia, Blood, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Death, Miscarriage, Suicide, War, and Injury/Injury detail
Black Water Sister by Zen Cho
emotional
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
I started this book during a reading slump and unfortunately, it did not pull me out of it. Still, it was an enjoyable read. I got used to the writing style and the characters were interesting. Once the plot picked up more, I felt more compelled to keep reading. It’s definitely an entertaining book and the idea is really unique. I’m used to romance books, so I had hoped there would be more. The representation was realistic and relatable, though. The big reveal towards the end didn’t leave me satisfied, and I only finished it so that I could start another book. I can see where someone would love this story, but I think it’s just not my cup of tea. It was an average reading experience for me, as much as I wanted to love it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Sexual assault and Blood